Overview of the Controversy
Two-time All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner and media company Barstool Sports are embroiled in a defamation lawsuit arising from comments linked to OnlyFans, a popular subscription service often associated with adult content. The litigation centers on allegations of defamation and the consequent personal and professional fallout for the involved parties.
Details of the Alleged Defamation
The controversy began with a social media exchange in which Sauce Gardner seemingly accused an individual, referred to as Mariakis, of sending him a direct message containing a link to her OnlyFans account. Gardner’s tweet implied, "I'm sure your husband wouldn't like it if I told him you [direct messaged] me your OF link, would he?" This statement insinuated Mariakis engaged in potentially deceptive behavior towards her spouse by having and sharing an OnlyFans account.
Response and Repercussions
Mariakis has categorically denied the existence of any OnlyFans account and delineated Gardner’s statement as false and malicious. The lawsuit claims that Barstool Sports further escalated the issue by publishing a blog which seemed to warn any married OnlyFans model in similar circumstances. Titled 'If you're a Married OnlyFans Model Who's Been DMing Sauce Gardner, You'd Be Wise Not to Troll Him about His Coverage Skill', the blog was still live as of the morning of January 9, adding to the controversy.
Impact on the Plaintiff
Mariakis is claiming compensatory and punitive damages, stating that the allegation and its publicity have led to ridicule and harassment from various segments of her social circle and beyond. This public scrutiny has cast doubts on her reputation, challenging her personal and familial roles as a respectable young woman, wife, and mother.
Other Related Controversies
This legal battle is not Gardner's first encounter with social media controversy. In another unrelated instance, he faced backlash following a heated social media interaction with a reporter and a fan after the Jets' defeat on November 10 during the 2024 season. Subsequently, Gardner stated he removed Twitter from his phone.
